New Lexus TZ: An Electric Crossover That Doesn’t Play SUV
A week ago, Lexus officially unveiled its new electric crossover, the TZ — the brand’s first three-row EV. We managed to get a close look, and the impressions were mixed, but mostly positive. The vehicle is available with up to 402 horsepower and is based on the Toyota Highlander EV platform. It seems the model’s success will depend less on interior quality and more on price.
Aerodynamic Design of Lexus
Unlike most modern three-row crossovers that try to look like SUVs, the TZ sits surprisingly low. This radically changes the perception of the vehicle. Instead of pseudo-ruggedness with massive cladding and enormous ground clearance — which harm efficiency and handling — the TZ looks purposefully on-road. It is sleek, elongated, and remarkably elegant for such a large vehicle.
Speaking of efficiency: the TZ’s drag coefficient is only 0.27. For comparison, the Toyota Prius has a drag coefficient of 0.25. This means this three-row crossover is almost as aerodynamic as a Prius.
From some angles, especially the front, the design seems somewhat derivative. But when aerodynamics become a priority and EVs no longer need massive radiator grilles, the options are limited. However, the rear is where the TZ truly gets interesting. It has a much more artistic and sculptural look than the front, giving the crossover a stronger visual identity.
Interestingly, the presented version is technically a European model. American versions are rumored to get an illuminated front badge. Technical specifications are still limited, but Lexus has confirmed dual-motor all-wheel drive, a range of approximately 300 miles (483 km), and up to 402 hp depending on the trim.
Inside the Cabin: The “Driver’s Lounge”
Inside, the TZ embodies the “Driver’s Lounge” philosophy. It’s a somewhat odd name, as a driver shouldn’t exactly lounge at the helm of a massive EV, but the execution is successful. The cabin is exceptionally quiet — quieter than any other Lexus vehicle, including the LX. And unlike many EVs that feel sterile, the TZ genuinely feels premium.
The designers managed to make the dashboard sufficiently distinct from the Toyota Highlander’s so they can’t be directly compared, although the overall atmosphere is similar. Some elements, such as the instrument cluster, wireless chargers, and certain controls, are located in similar places but arranged slightly differently.
Some materials evoke mixed feelings. For instance, “bamboo forging” sounds very cool on paper, and the use of real bamboo is commendable. However, in reality, the trim initially looked like stone-effect plastic until we were told what it actually was.
Nevertheless, there is a lot to like. The layout is excellent, the third row seems genuinely comfortable, and some details make more expensive products, like the Cadillac Escalade IQ, look underdeveloped. For example, the TZ has one-touch buttons for heating and rear backrest adjustment in the third row. The much more expensive Escalade lacks this feature.
Other notable features include rear-wheel steering, a premium Mark Levinson audio system, and a “rear-comfort” mode to soften the ride for rear passengers.
Where the TZ Will Live or Die
The biggest question is price. The engineering philosophy is perfectly suited for Lexus: EVs naturally amplify tranquility, smoothness, and isolation. However, enthusiasm for large luxury EVs in America remains uncertain.
Since the TZ shares a platform with the Toyota Highlander EV but sits a full segment higher in terms of refinement and purpose, the price difference will be a true test. If Lexus sets an aggressive price, the TZ could become a compelling alternative to the Volvo EX90. If not, it risks remaining an exceptionally refined niche product for buyers seeking maximum comfort and minimal noise.
Ultimately, the Lexus TZ is an interesting experiment. It rejects popular SUV cliches in favor of aerodynamics and on-road behavior. Its cabin is genuinely quiet and luxurious, even if some materials seem ambiguous. The key question is whether the market is ready to pay for this approach, especially when the cheaper Toyota Highlander EV offers a similar platform. The answer to this question will determine whether the TZ becomes a sales hit or remains an interesting but niche curiosity.